matapan Posted December 2, 2011 Share Posted December 2, 2011 I'm considering replacing my alarm with an Elk M1. Based on reading some of the threads on the forums, could someone with one of these alarm systems answer the questions below? - Does the ELK module for ISY add the capability of managing devices on the ELK alarm systems, like door and window sensors, or motion sensors to ISY? Can you use the alarm sensors to check on occupancy in a program to set back a thermostat, for example? It would be nice not to buy motion sensors for checking occupancy, then have separate ones for the alarm system. - Does anyone know if the ELK M1 will be replaced soon with an updated unit which takes into consideration lessons learned from the development and feedback from the M1? It seems like the M1 has been around for a while. Considering how technology moves and how the timelines for when people consider something obsolete is shortening all the time, does it make sense to get an M1, or to wait for the next model? - What is the ballpark cost of an M1 system with the necessary interfaces to work with ISY, 2 wireless motion sensors, 4 wireless door/window sensors, and 3 smoke alarms, and two keypads? Thanks! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chris Jahn Posted December 2, 2011 Share Posted December 2, 2011 Hi matapan, I'm not sure about the other questions, but with new Elk module you can monitor the status of zones. For example, you can have ISY programs run whenever a zone is violated, or contact closure is closed etc. regardless of whether the area is armed or not. It also supports many other conditions (and actions), such as outputs, thermostats connected to Elk, keypads, etc.. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
matapan Posted December 2, 2011 Author Share Posted December 2, 2011 So in effect, any Elk sensor becomes a home automation sensor, to detect occupancy, along with window and door states, making an investment in Insteon motion sensors or Triggerlincs unnecessary, correct? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
apostolakisl Posted December 2, 2011 Share Posted December 2, 2011 So in effect, any Elk sensor becomes a home automation sensor, to detect occupancy, along with window and door states, making an investment in Insteon motion sensors or Triggerlincs unnecessary, correct? Yes. The Elk module for ISY brings everything (except tasks) into the ISY arena. I am not sure why they didn't put tasks in to the module, but a workaround is pretty easy. Personally I like having tasks becuase you can get to them from the keypads easily. I have just set tasks to turn a "phantom" output on and then ISY responds to that. I have written hundred of Elk "rules" and hundreds of ISY programs. ISY is by far a better way to program the automation. I have been playing with the ISY Elk module since the day it came out and have found that it is a very well done system. It even lets you have access to all of the keypad temp sensors for programming which, oddly, the actual Elk system doesn't let you do. You have to buy the special temp probe that connects to a zone input for that feature in Elk (for about $50). And to the total cost. I should expect somewhere around $1000 would get you an ISY/PLM/Elk starter kit. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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